Vonovia Tenants Resist Digital Smoke Detectors Over Privacy Concerns

In the Ruhr area, tenants are expressing their resistance to the installation of new digital smoke detectors introduced by the housing company Vonovia, citing concerns over potential 'spy' features. Reports indicate that many residents are actively refusing access to their homes for technicians attempting to install these devices.

Whereas traditional smoke detectors are mandated by law, allowing landlords to enforce their installation through legal action, the situation is more complex with the new digital models. Since 2014, the installation of conventional smoke detectors in residences has been a legal requirement. However, disputes arise over the classification of the new digital detectors, which are viewed not as necessary repairs but as modern upgrades that could lead to increased rental costs.

The installation of the so-called 'Multisensor Plus' has sparked protests beyond just the Ruhr region, with tenants across various parts of Germany voicing their dissatisfaction primarily over financial implications. Unlike traditional detectors, these advanced devices come with additional functionalities that allow them to monitor not only smoke but also temperature, humidity, and in some cases, carbon monoxide levels. This has raised alarms among tenant advocacy groups, who argue that such features may infringe upon privacy rights.

Concerns are primarily centered around the potential for data collection on residents' habits, particularly regarding how often they ventilate their homes. Critics argue that tenants should not be expected to pay for such functionalities, which they consider unnecessary for a smoke detector's basic purpose. The resistance has been further fueled by discrepancies in cost estimates, with Vonovia claiming the additional expense would be minimal--around three euros per month--while tenant organizations suggest it could exceed 60 euros annually.

Despite the pushback, Vonovia maintains that these extra features will only be activated upon explicit request from tenants. The company has stated that the Multisensor Plus is their new standard device, with few exceptions for other models. However, competitors in the housing market, such as LEG and Vivawest, continue to utilize simpler smoke alarms, further complicating Vonovia's positioning in the market.

If it is determined that using the digital smoke detectors violates data protection regulations, Vonovia may face challenges in mandating their installation. This issue could potentially lead to review by the Federal Court, as the legal landscape around such technologies evolves in response to tenant rights and privacy concerns.